March 4, 2008, Mt. Rainier, Tatoosh

The Longmire gate opened at 11 as per the recorded message.  Winter Raven & I broke trail from Narada Falls to Reflection Lake and up the standard Tatoosh route.  There was heavy powder (it must be March) in the trees with about 8" ski penetration.  Exposed western aspects such as Narada face were strongly wind-affected with 1-2" penetration.  Above about 6000' the snow was 'styrofoam' on all open slopes, becoming icy crust near the ridges.  No signs of avy activity; no pit.  However, vigorous pole plants showed a widespread 'hollow' or low density layer about 6-10" down on the higher N & E aspects that kept us on the easiest terrain.  Cloudy all day with a few sucker holes.